Reconstruction After Breast Cancer Surgery

We have seen two patients lately who have had mastectomies previously for breast cancer.  Surgery for both patients was done several years ago and no reconstruction was attempted at the time.  They went through the post surgical treatment of chemo or chemo and radiation therapy.   They both had the same misconception.   They both thought that because it had been over 3 years since their cancer diagnosis and treatment, the isurance would probably not pay for reconstruction now.  This is actually not true.  In 1998 when the legislature passed the Women's Health Act there was no deadline put on post cancer reconstruction.   Insurance companies were mandated to pay for reconstruction on the affected breast and treatment on the contralateral breast to bring the breasts into symmetry.    If you find yourself in a similar situation, and thought the same thing, please know that you may still be able to have reconstructive surgery to reconstruct and revise your breasts.   The first step is to see a board certified Plastic Surgeon and see what your options are.   It could open up a whole new world to you.